Wheat straw crisis hits Karachi dairy farmers
Karachi is experiencing an acute wheat straw crisis following a three-day supply suspension, sparking protests among local dairy farmers and raising concerns over a potential milk shortage across the metropolis.
Media reports indicate that trucks carrying wheat straw have ceased arriving in the city, impacting hundreds of local dairy farms. In response, farm owners gathered in Cattle Colony to demonstrate against alleged police extortion, claiming officers at entry points and checkpoints are demanding illegal payments from transporters and halting deliveries.
The supply disruption, coupled with recent increases in petroleum and diesel prices that have driven up transport costs, has pushed wheat straw prices from 1,200 rupees to 2,000 rupees per maund.
Because wheat straw serves as primary feed for cattle, stakeholders warn that the ongoing shortage threatens Karachi’s milk supply. Dairy farmers have called on the Sindh government, the Inspector General of Sindh Police, and the Commissioner Karachi to eliminate police extortion, ensure uninterrupted transport, and stabilise feed prices.